Sam,
I'm anxious to see the results of your first attempt at framebuilding. I think you did the right thing. Go ahead and build something first. That way when you ask questions of a framebuilder you will be much better able to relate to what they tell you. So much more experience can be had by doing it than reading the books etc. I would imagine that oftentimes the books and videos don't tell you how to do what is neccessary using any method other than their own.
Why are you making us wait until October? Pergolizzi is right. It should be presented clearcoated so we can see the real deal. Full chrome is another option; you will not get away with a single sin with chrome either. Or how about silver; you won't get away with much that way either although bondo would cover almost anything. Don't be surprised if during the painting things that you didn't realize about your frame present themselves. Any tiny pinhole can cause a bubble or other problem unless you DON'T bake the paint. Maybe you shoild let it air dry.
If you want to get away with as much as possible, paint it white.
Brian Baylis La Mesa, CA I wish I had my first frame. It passed through my hands about 12 years ago the last time. Someone is still out there riding it. Next time it comes through; it's not leaving.